Sign Language Interpreters

Interpreters are professionals who facilitate communication between Deaf or Hard of Hearing persons and hearing individuals in a variety of settings.

Interpreters may use either sign language or the oral method of interpreting. Sign language interpreters possess highly developed sign language and fingerspelling skills, while oral interpreters form words on the lips for speechreading. Interpreters will convey all auditory information (for example, the speaker's comments, class discussions, and important environmental sounds). Interpreters may also provide sign to voice services for the Deaf person if requested.

The role of the interpreter is similar to that of a foreign language interpreter: to bridge the communication gap between two parties. The professional interpreter is bound by the Code of Ethics developed by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, which specifies that interpreters are to serve as communication intermediaries who are not otherwise involved. Therefore, all communication should be directed toward the individual rather than the interpreter.

Requesting an Interpreter

Faculty and staff may request an interpreter for office hours, meetings, and other University-related events as needed by contacting Nancy Diener directly at 726-8709 (voice), or 726-7380 (TTY) or sumitting the electronic interpreter request form..

Deaf and Hard of Hearing students often request interpreters from the Access Center when they register for classes. In the unlikely event that the student shows for the first day of class without an interpreter, the student should be referred to Disability Services & Resources where he/she can complete an Interpreter Request Form. The form is given to the Interpreter Coordinator who will schedule an appropriate interpreter.

Tips for Working with an Interpreter

Relax. Talk at your normal speed. Use all the facial expressions and gestures you normally use.

The Deaf or Hard of Hearing person and the interpreter will generally work out seating arrangements in the class or meeting room. Usually the interpreter will be located near the speaker.

Note that there is a slight time lag between the spoken message and the interpretation.

When making reference to objects or written information, please allow time for the translation to take place. To aid the interpreter, avoid using terms such as "here," "there," and "this one." Better expressions are "on the second line," "upper left hand corner," etc.

If you are planning a movie or other audiovisual presentation, please let the student and the interpreter know in advance so arrangements may be made for lighting and positioning. In the alternative, a separate viewing time may be scheduled.

When talking to a Deaf or Hard of Hearing person through an interpreter, continue to look at and speak directly to the person, not the interpreter. Avoid using phrases like, "Ask him," or "tell her..."

Be sensitive to class sessions or meetings extending longer than one hour. The interpreter may require a short break in order to maintain proficiency in interpreting.

If the Deaf or Hard of Hearing individual does not show up for class or a meeting, the interpreter will generally wait 15 minutes and will return to the Access Center.

Should an interpreter not be present during a class period, conduct class as usual, recognizing the need of the Deaf or Hard of Hearing student to have information given visually (i.e. use of blackboard, clear view of speaker's face, borrowing notes from a classmate, etc.). Contact the Access Center for assistance.

Disability Services & Resources staff are available to answer questions about interpreting services, communicating with Deaf or Hard of Hearing individuals, and to provide assistance as needed. Call Nancy Diener at 726-8709 (voice) or 726-7380 (TTY) or email ndiener@d.umn.edu for more information.

©1997 by Nancy Diener